Independent Communications Authority of South Africa
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has published a notice in the Government Gazette inviting comment on the draft radio frequency spectrum fee regulations.
The regulations apply to broadcasting services licensees. They are published in terms of the Electronic Communications Act.
Written comment is invited until 30 September 2010.
According to the notice, the regulations aim to standardise radio frequency spectrum licence fees and pricing. This has a two-fold purpose, namely, to make spectrum use more efficient and in line with international standards.
The regulations will also establish a “transparent, fair, competitive and non-discriminatory” radio frequency spectrum pricing process.
They also want to encourage a move to less populated and low demand bands. A simplified pricing process will result in a more competitive broadcasting environment.
Spectrum prices fulfil a number of objectives including administrative costs to cover the management of the relevant parts of the spectrum, efficiency and encouraging a move towards higher frequencies.
Notably, ICASA holds the view that the regulations can contribute to a wider spread of telecommunications infrastructure across South Africa.
The regulations contain a pricing formula to determine what licence fees will be charged for each category of frequency spectrum.
A reference table for calculating radio frequency spectrum licence fees is also provided.
Failure to comply with the regulations can result in a fine not exceeding 10% of the licensee’s gross profit.
The regulations are scheduled to come into effect on 1 April 2011.
Sabinet Cape Town Office
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